Paddling around Port Phillip Bay in a kayak isn’t most people’s idea of a weekend away, but air force navigator Andrew Johnston has done just that.
Paddle in hand, the 21-year RAAF member took to the ocean from Werribee South last weekend with the goal of raising $3000 for the Red Cross.
Squadron Leader Johnston said that having witnessed first-hand the work the Red Cross did during emergency events, he was inspired to act.
“We all know the scale of natural disasters, be it the fires here in Victoria or a tsunami overseas,” he said. “Helping the people who do so much to help disaster victims just seemed the best way to contribute.
“The size of some disasters seems overwhelming, but my first-hand sight of the Red Cross doing so much inspired me to help them do their work,” he said.
“So I’m setting out to raise a small amount. Lots of small amounts can make a real difference.”
Sqn Ldr Johnston’s journey began at Werribee South then crossed Corio Bay and, at night, continued to the Mornington Peninsula. He arrived at Station Pier, Port Melbourne, at dawn on Sunday morning, then turned around and headed back to Werribee to finish a 170-kilometre round trip.
Mr Johnston improved on his goal, raising almost $6000, but he’s still welcoming donations. Click here for more details.
